To increase the longevity of a car, an owner should perform the necessary maintenance on a regular basis. For instance, in the course of normal driving patterns, the car accumulate debris in the cooling system. To keep the damage from this debris to a minimum every few years an owner should flush the radiator. This protection is simple enough that most any car owner can do it.
Park the vehicle on level surface. If possible, drive the Cadillac Escalade up onto a car riser to make getting underneath the auto easier. Be sure that the parking brake for the truck is on before starting any work.
Pop the hood of the Escalade and touch the radiator. If the radiator is cool to the touch, then loosen the radiator cap with one turn. Wait a few seconds to make sure the radiator pressure is gone. Now, remove the radiator cap.
Place a bucket or tray beneath the radiator drain plug to catch the old coolant.
Remove the radiator drain plug from the bottom of the radiator and let all of the coolant drain in the bucket or tray. You may need a socket wrench to remove the drain plug during the flushing of the radiator.
Check all of the hoses and connections on the radiator that may need replacing. If the connections show corrosion or hoses feel spongy or have cracks, these can be signs they need replacing.
Put the old coolant in a sealable container to dispose of properly later. Since this coolant is extremely toxic, you should dispose of it at a local waste treatment facility or an auto mechanic shop.
Flush the radiator with distilled water until it runs clear into your drain bucket or tray. You will need to dispose of the flush liquid properly as well.
Replace the drain plug at the bottom of the radiator.
Refill the radiator with coolant to maximum level without any spillage. To obtain the best performance, purchase the coolant approved for use with the Cadillac Escalade.
Switch on the car's ignition with the radiator cap still off. Let the car run until the engine fan turns off and on twice. Then, let the engine cool and check the radiator coolant levels. If the coolant level dropped below maximum, add some more coolant, replace the radiator cap and close the hood.
